History of the Nursery
These photographs of Withdean were taken in January 1949, before the builders had taken on the area. For many years this land formed part of Withdean Farm, which extended up the hill nearly to the Dyke Road. Concrete roads were laid down on either side of the large barn and a few bungalows erected in 1938/39 in Dene Vale and Barn Rise. There was no further development until 1954 when building recommenced. Now, in 1956 a concrete road runs in front of the hillside copse, but it will be several years yet before the valley is completely built over. |
In 1958 - 23 years later, the view from the top of the hill looking down towards the barn which is still visible. Building of the Westdene Estate is now proceeding apace and in a few years, this once pleasant valley will be covered with houses. The clump of trees on the skyline of the previous photograph, is still there but is just out of the photograph in this view. |
Here is a map of what Withdean/Westdene looked like and you can clearly see where Newman's Barn was situated back in the day Between November 1942 - February 1957 was conveyed to the corporation by Braybons Ltd which they maintained as a public open space. Now that public open space is still accessed and is a children's playground. |
In the early 1960's the Women's Institute was formed they decided that a playgroup would be an asset for the local mums in Westdene. East Sussex County Council agreed that the small building Newman's barn would be the playgroup. So as of 19th March 1969 Westdene Playgroup was formed. There has been many changes for Westdene Playgroup . The name changed from Westdene Playgrop to Westdene Pre - School and then the name changed again to My First Friends Nursery.
Brighton and Hove City Council gave us a grant in 2011 and refurbished the nursery and the playground . Newman's barn will always be apart of our history which we are very proud of !